HC Deb 28 June 1979 vol 969 cc320-1W
Mr. Field

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of those in receipt of contributory invalidity benefit qualify for free prescriptions.

Mrs. Chalker

It has previously been estimated that some 28 per cent. of those in receipt of contributory invalidity benefit would qualify for exemption from prescription charges. This figure could well rise following the proposed increase in the prescription charge and the related increase in the tolerance margin which sets the income limits for low income exemption.